Saturday, December 13, 2008
ECO-FRIENDLY BUYERS’ CONNECTIONS & RELOCATING in the Asheville, NC Area
No doubt about it, even moving to beautiful ASHEVILLE, NC can be a challenging experience. RELOCATING to new surroundings can disrupt the flow of your daily life, be time-consuming and costly. Working with us to scout out and secure that “perfect” eco-friendly property, while it is an exciting adventure, can also bring up concerns.
and in the Foothills of South Carolina TELL US WHAT I MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU
Buyers’ Questionnaire with Special Emphasis on GREEN Features such as:
AgricultureAir Quality
Green Building
Consumer Wellness
GREEN Development
Eco Development
Energy Efficiency
Sustainability
Resource Management
Resource Conservation
Sustainable Development
NC ENERGY EFFICIENCY $$$ SAVINGS “GREEN” Tax Credits
All efficiency incentives: http://www.energytaxincentives.org/
Tax rules and forms: http://www.irs.gov/
Federal and State, all incentives: http://www.dsireusa.org/
North Carolina Solar Center programs
http://www.ncsc.ncsu.edu/
A Few Internet Resources
Energy Efficiency Information (tax credits and more):
http://www.energystar.gov/
NC SOLAR http://www.ncsc.ncsu.edu/
SC FOOTHILLS South Carolina Solar Power Rebates, Tax Credits, and Incentives
http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/
Who is eligible to claim the $7,500 tax credit?
What is the definition of a first-time home buyer?
How do I claim the tax credit? Do I need to complete a form or application?
NC HealthyBuilt® Homes Information and Real Estate and Conservation Land Trusts
GREEN BUILDERS , ECO-DEVELOPERS & SUSTAINABLE SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS
Here is a list of green builders , eco-developers and eco-friendly support professionals we have met and worked with over the years. We compiled it for those who may be investing in land or who choose to build new or renovate in a sustainable fashion. We have found that those mentioned here have charged themselves with the goal of contributing to the health of our planet; building healthy homes that are structurally sound and ecologically friendly. and that they keep abreast of sustainable innovation.
http://www.abuildingsolution.comhttp://www.abuildingsolution.com/
DEMOS Builders
Jim Demos
http://www.demosbuilders.com/
Jade Mountain Builders
Hans Doellgast
216-3948
JAG Construction
Jody Guokas
216-0941
QED Solutions
Dan Edwards
273-8256
dan@qedsolutions.us
Rare Earth Builders
Mark Bondurant
http://www.rareearthbuilders.com/
ECO- Support Professionals
Home Energy Partners (HEP) provides high performance building consultation and services to homebuyers, contractors, organizations, real estate agents and lenders. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and building science techniques to asses and repair health, comfort and energy concerns within new and existing buildings. HEP is an Energy Star Partner and administers the Greater Asheville Area HealthyBuilt Homes Certification.http://www.homeenergypartners.com/
Samsel Architects, 20-year history, a key design principle of Samsel Architects has been the thoughtful integration of the natural and built environment. We incorporate these qualities into all our projects with high efficiency building envelopes, solar energy considerations, water conservation techniques and resource-efficient, healthy materials. We provide architectural services for residences, commercial, institutions, renovations and historic preservation projects. Each of our designs draws on the special character of our region as well as the individual features of the project site.http://www.samselarchitects.com/
Sundance Power Systems, Southeast’s premier renewable energy company, serving residential and commercial clients since 1995. Our technical expertise includes design and installation of solar hot water and radiant floor heating systems, as well as solar, wind, and micro-hydroelectric power systems. We also serve our customers by providing information on tax credits for renewable energy systems, and help establish grid-tie partnerships with NC Green Power. With the energy of the sun, wind and water, we empower people to participate in the solution to our energy challenges. http://www.sundancepower.com/
Alice Dodson alicedodson@charter.net
Ken Gaylord Architect/Black Hawk http://www.kengaylord.com/
ArchiterraChristopher larson@toast.net
Daryl Rantis, Architect http://www.rantisarchitects.com/
More GREEN FEATURED
www.earthpaint.net/index.htm
http://www.equinoxenvironmental.com/
http://www.innovahomes.net/
GENERAL RELOCATION & TAX INFO
North Carolina Sales Tax
http://www.dornc.com/taxes/sales/
LOAN QUALIFICATION: Pre-Approval or Pre-Qualification Letter. Do you know the difference….? It can be deceiving because you might think that you are fully approved when you are not. . . Pre-Qualification = A simple assessment by the lender. This does NOT commit the lender at all to the applicant, being only an opinion of the lender....Pre-Approval = A more in-depth assessment of a borrower’s buying capacity based on income. Unlike a pre-qualification, a pre-approval letter also checks the applicant’s credit and is a surer verification of a borrower’s income. It takes longer to process and will require more comprehensive documentation, but gives a clearer and more definitive guarantee of the loan amount a borrower is entitled to.
One Asheville lender offers online assessment forms.
Lynn Davis: http://www.ashevillesavingsbank.com/mortgage-closing-guarantee.html
Please let us know if you would like referrals to lenders who specialize in energy efficient loans.
WHAT BUYERS MUST KNOW ABOUT
Working with Real Estate Professionals in the State of North Carolina
"IT’S THE LAW!" Printer Friendly Version: Click HERE North Carolina’s state-mandated consumer protection law. Here is a brief description of North Carolina’s Law of Agency—about agency relationships and services, and representation in a real estate transaction. The Law of Agency says: On “first substantial contact” clients/potential clients need to know who is representing who. (Example: At The Eco-Steward Real Estate Firm we are essentially Buyers’ Brokers, representing buyers/investors. 95% of our business involves buyers/investors, although we do accept amazing properties to represent for the sellers from time-to-time.)
The Law of Agency says: Clients/potential clients have rights under the Law. These rights need to be reviewed prior to that client/potential client offering significant details that could negatively impact negotiations in a transaction. Acknowledgement of Allegiance, Relationshipsand Representation Form.
Sample Copy of NC Offer to Purchase and Contract
Sample Copy of Questions and Answers on Home Inspections
NC HealthyBuilt® Homes Information
http://healthybuilthomes.org/
Real Estate and Conservation Land Trusts in Western North Carolina and South Carolina’s Foothills
http://www.sog.unc.edu/pubs/electronicversions/pg/pgfal00/article5.pdf
Utilities and Contact Details
WaterAsheville Buncombe Water AuthorityP.O. Box 7148, Asheville, NC, 28802City Building: 828 251 1122
Black Mountain: 828 669 8732Woodfin: 828 253 5551Weaverville: 828 645 7116Biltmore Forest: 828 27 0824
ElectricityProgress EnergyPO Box 2041Raleigh,NC 276021 800 452 2777http://www.progress-energy.com/
French Broad Electric1 800 222 6190 or 828 649 2051
TelephoneBell South, P.O.Box 33009, Charlotte, NC 28243Bell South 828 780 2355Verizon 1 800 483 4300
Natural GasPublic Service of NCP.O. Box 620Asheville.NC 28243828 253 1821 or 877 776 2427
Cable TVCharter 828 274 7500 or 828 669 2609
SATELLITE TVDirect TV 800 693 3657
WasteGDS 828 253 3929WM 828 253 5364Wyatt 828 665 0991
RecyclingAsheville/828 259 5547 or Buncombe 250 5460
PropaneBlossman Gas 828 667 0437Freeman Gas 828 696 9920Suburban Propane 828 252 4733
Black Mountain
Water and Trash pick up - residents put out trash Sunday nights for Monday am pick up
Town Hall Water Dept. 828 669 8250112 Montreat Rd, Black Mountain NC 28711
PowerProgress Energy 800 452 2777
GasPSNC Energy 877 776 2427
PhoneBellSouth 888 757 6500 in NC800 767 2355 outside NC
Cable TVCharter Communications800 955 7766
Any questions? Let us know how we can be of assistance!
Curious about sustainable Green real estate possibilities ? Simply pedal on over to Convivial Blogger Greenolina's "Green Wheels" BLOG......................... .............
ECO-FRIENDLY BUYERS’ CONNECTIONS & RELOCATING in the Asheville, NC Area .The Eco-Steward Firm, ALL Eco-Certified® Real Estate Consultants! Copyright © 2008-2009 All Rights Reserved
Labels: asheville green real estate
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
GO HERE FOR THE LATEST GREEN NEWS
Saturday, November 03, 2007
For more TIMELY VIEWS and NEWS please go to:
http://activerain/blogs/janeAnne
Sunday, August 12, 2007
I Feel Blessed
Picture yourself on a typical "work"day …
Rolling pastures, and Appalachian “countryscapes” dotted with red barns,, white steeples, and greening crops that mean a supply of locally-grown food, border singing streams that bring a smile to your face, and the “wake up” calls of roosters actually may surprise you at any time of day. Surprises are fun.
It is wonderful. . Country breezes bring aromas of newly mown hay. A rigorous walk through the pasture might be at hand. Good exercise. (see photo ) .
There’s a sense of history in the air, too. According to Wikipedia, “prior to the 20th century, the people of Appalachia were geographically isolated from the rest of the country. As a result, they preserved the culture of their ancestors (most of them Scottish, Scots-Irish, Irish, German, and English) who settled the region in the 18th century. The region's culture includes a strong oral tradition (including music and song), self-sufficiency…” .
"Self sufficiency.” Yep, that’s you. You’re in your hiking gear and so are your clients who are practically bubbling with enthusiasm, just like the cascade you point out as you drive on.. . They love the land (and so do you.) They love the all the animals, especially the horses (and so do you.) . They love riding in your car with the top down.
Maybe you’ll have to step over rocks to cross a stream, climb some granite outcropping, sit for a story or two with the farmer on a screened in porch by her perennial garden. . And at the end of the day, the gem having been found, offer on the way or not, you feel that certain sense of satisfaction that arrives when you are at home with what inspires you.
Talk about "right livelihood"! As a REALTOR® who specializes in acreages with improvements such as stables and farm homes the short list of 10 above just begins to describe my day. I feel lucky and blessed to have such experiences. ...gifts I happily will share with you.
Labels: acreage, asheville real estate, energy efficient homes asheville, green real estate, green-o-lina, horse farms, stewardship, sustainable
Friday, August 10, 2007
A Few Green Concepts, Raw Land & ECO-friendly Asheville
That’s the question that started an eye-opening conversation with the talented botanist consultant, Kevin Caldwell.
Kevin knows how to incorporate green-planning based on ecology into your current living spaces, and/or he can advise you on how to build a green home on raw land. He knows what to look for in terms of a land plan. You can tell right away that this 6’6” pillar of information loves his work. There’s a twinkle in his eye when he describes it—the botanical, wildlife, and natural community inventories, the Section 404 Wetland Delineations and Section 7 Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species assessments he performs. If you want to hear first-hand stories about
Old Growth forest delineation, ecosystem management and restoration, re-vegetation, and invasive species removal, Kevin’s your man. So when I got to go along with him while he was doing a landscape-level assessment of intrusive and native species, I was delighted. Our conversation took place on a knoll overlooking a valley one sunny morning not long ago.
read more about my conversation with Kevin in my monthly column in the New Life Journal
Labels: asheville green real estate, green building, green-o-lina, land planning
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Just a Few "Earthy" Investment Thoughts
What if you just landed here on Earth and were
looking for opportunity in investment property?
What "kind" of land would attract you?
a) agricultural land
b) rural land
c) urban land
Let's say you could leave your footprint upon Terra Firma.
How would you plan to establish it and watch it turn into something special?
Maybe you would be like this little "green" guy who grew up on a farm on a faraway galaxy. You are interested in agricultural land. You head out with a vision to create a working farm, maybe your brother will develop co-housing facilities, and you will live in a sustainable eco-village. You love good food. So you decide to grow and supply organic crops and dairy products.
On the other hand, having come all this way in life in a crowded space craft, you now yearn for a private estate where you can set aside 1,900 of 2,000 acres of rural land. You want to hang out in nature, ride around on a horse,create a trail system for equestrian pursuits.- You will probably restrict use on 100 acres of such a parcel for a nature-education center so that other cosmic-environmentalists can get the Earthlings up-to-speed on how to take care of their planet.
- OR... Maybe too much nature kind of scares you. You don't really like all those noisy winds. You are an urban land kind of person. You want to design techonolgically-advanced systems in a LEED certified "green" office building.
THIS is another in the series of Featured Articles at Active Rain.
continue reading my BLOG at Active Rain here
Labels: acreage, active rain BLOG, green investment, green-o-lina, horse farms, j LEED, N.C. LAND, real estate, stewardship, sustainable trends
GREENis Red Hot
another in the Featured at Active Rain series
"So, tell me," my silver-haired client with a printed copy of my article from janeAnne's Blog on Trends in hand asked, "I have read in Barron's , but I want to know what you, my REALTOR thinks....Is it true that there really is a trend toward green building these days?"
She continued by way of explanation, " You see, I am 72 now. I am on a clock. If there's a trend, then maybe there are more green builders around who could help my family and me." Yes, my friend. There IS a trend toward designing, constructing, and operating high performance "green" buildings.
And yes, too, more and more, developers are enrolling in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) classes to learn how to select environmentally responsible locations, reduce the negative impact on natural surroundings and benefit you with a healthier indoor environment.
LEED promotes a "whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: 1)sustainable site development 2)water savings 3)energy efficiency 4)materials selection 5)indoor environmental quality
"Finally! It's about time," she cheered. "My daughter and I are thrilled. We have heard about the whole system approach. Could you tell me about the LEED rating system," she continued with a smile. "You see, we were looking into buying a new home where I could have my own quarters and my daughter and husband and the twins all could live.But I didn't quite understand about the LEED rating system the builder mentioned."
Labels: active rain BLOG asheville real estate brownfields green green-built green-o-lina janeAnne LEED montford restoration grenn-o-lina stewardship sustainable trends, green real estate, LEED certified, nc
Tracking GREEN Trends
another in the Featured at Active Rain Series
Just the other day, an old-timer in the building industry, known for his no-nonsense ways took me aside. "So WHAT if the Green Building Council says that LEED-certified buildings are leading the transformation of the built environment," he said. "So what if they have lower operating costs, and tax rebates, zoning allowances, and other incentives ! What does that mean to me? " "Well, Mr. Jones," I replied, "When I put my 'green' glasses on and look down the 'trend tracks'...and I say this knowing that you currently may not align yourself with green building issues... chances are high that you will be meeting up with a demand by your customers who are hopping on board with the trend . Do you think it might be timely for you to capitalize on your potential to be an ‘industry innovator'?"
So, I have been thinking about this a good bit lately . Come to think of it, from any number of perspectives...as a REALTOR®, investor, or stake-holder, now could be the perfect moment to ride the rails into the future. Certainly, everyone could expect a positive outcome. At the very least, what a pleasant way to attract and enjoy new business opportunities. And here's what. There are about as many shades of green as you see in the early light on an Appalachian mountainside. And our levels of attraction, commitment and motivation are unique to each of us. ...For example, When you evaluate a home, do you ask yourself, "How many miles per gallon does this home get?" ? How about energy resources? Durability? Low impact on nature? Health for you, your employees, your family? As AR member William Robbins remarked in his piece on Ways I Am Trying to be Green " I am no 'tree hugger' and I am not claiming to be the most energy efficient individual, but I am working on it....I am getting educated and passing info along to home owners and friends...from Energy Star appliances, Low VOC Paint, renewable resource building products like Bamboo Flooring, etc.
to continue reading and comment go here
Labels: brownfields, green-built, LEED, trends
Classic Asheville Neighborhood, Montford
The Montford Neighborhood ~ Asheville, N.C. ~A Community Embracing a Sustainable Future.
MONTFORD: Where one picture tells the story.
The MONTFORD NEIGBORHOOD in Asheville, North Carolina: Historic and Happening!
Here is a neighborhood of about 300 acres that expresses a rich diversity of architectural styles, most constructed between 1890 and 1920.
Montford, like its residents, is a place of complex overall character.. .Romance and history are in the air, so expect to " feel" the artistic influences. Even residents of other neighborhoods in and around Asheville find themselves drawn to Montford.
Maybe you will see them strolling down a tree-lined boulevard. Maybe you will notice how often they stop to gaze at the majestic homes that grace the streets There are wondrous architectural details including those from such trendsetters as Bruce Price, Bernard Maybeck, the prominent Arts and Crafts architect, and Frank Lloyd Wright. The Arts and Crafts style made popular in Asheville by noted society architect, Richard Sharp Smith, supervising Architect to Biltmore House is well-represented here in Montford.
According to the National Park Service, "Smith's preference for pebbledash, shingles, high-pitched roofs and heavy stone foundations contributed to an overall form for the neighborhood.
to continue reading please follow this link
Labels: asheville real estate, green, green-o-lina, montford, restoration grenn-o-lina, stewardship, sustainable
Friday, May 11, 2007
http://activerain.com/blogs/janeanne
CONTINUATION OF THIS BLOG LINK
http://activerain.com/blogs/janeanne
Labels: active rain BLOG, asheville real estate, green-o-lina, janeAnne
